Lithium-ion cells leave production lines as separate items. However, their collective value is perhaps greatest when they assemble into packs for electric vehicles, and for bulk energy storage. In this instance, those containments add additional protection to their tiny cells. It follows, therefore that we also need to give attention to lithium-ion battery pack design.
The Protective Value of Lithium-Ion Battery Packs
Cylindrical lithium-ion cells are not ideal shapes, because they can’t pack tightly in the length, and don’t fill their packs completely. When we factor in an electric-car battery pack could contain 7,000 or more of them, the scale of the problem becomes obvious.
Lithium-ion battery packs take more space than they theoretically need to. This affects the efficiency of the product. If we could make the cells larger, we might be better off. Although the challenge we face is to keep the kW hour ratio similar.
Lithium-ion battery makers go to great lengths to make their batteries safe. However, huge production volumes mean the odd defect is almost inevitable. The FAA mandated that Boeing encase their lithium-ion batteries in metal boxes after the Dreamliner fire.
Better Controls During Pack Assembly
It follows that battery pack assemblers also need to pass through strict controls to ensure their lithium-ion battery packs are safe as humanly possible. For example, their management systems, and protective circuits need to meet stringent controls too.
This is why purchasing accredited lithium batteries extends to their containers when they are enclosed in packs. Lithium-ion cells have advantages over other chemistries for certain applications. Perhaps someday a better alternative will materialize.
Simple Rules for Safer L-Ion Batteries
Resist the urge to dismantle a lithium-ion battery pack out of curiosity. Hand it over in complete form for recycling. Never, ever bend, puncture or fracture an individual lithium-ion cell. Its electrolyte can catch alight, and burn at a very high temperature.
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